The Ogun II Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), on Wednesday, disclosed that it generated a whooping N14.650 billion from excise duty between January to August, 2023.
This was disclosed by the outgone Customs Area Controller, Compt. Ahmadu Shuaibu, after he handed over the mantle of leadership to the newly redeployed Controller, Compt. Adebisi Alade at the command’s headquarters.
LEADERSHIP reports that the Ogun II command is saddled with the responsibilities of enforcing and regulating all Excise (industries under Excise control), Free Trade Zone and Parcel Post related activities in Ogun state.
He said, “the command generated N2.259billion in January, N1.301billion in February; N2.336billion in March, N1.596billion in April and N1.766billion in May.” He continued, “In June, N898million was generated while N1.857billion and N2.634billion were generated in July and August, 2023.”
Shuaibu, however, acknowledged the resilience of the stakeholders, saying despite the economic realities, they paid their excise duties as at when due.
“Today marks another milestone in our career. This meeting cannot be possible without the contribution of our stakeholders and officers. Our contribution since we assumed leadership are modest. It’s not easy to collect revenue and we have deep respect and regard for our stakeholders.
“However, inspite of the economic realities you have paid your duty as at when it’s time and you pay accordingly. I am elated to tell you that you have done well even though the business environment is not easy, you pay taxes to state, local government and Customs. The template is set, no need for fear and anxiety especially with officers and stakeholders so if we can’t it, we should maintain status quo,” he stated.
Also speaking, the newly redeployed Controller, Compt. Adebisi Alade, said he will follow the footstep of his predecessor to take the command to greater height.
He also disclosed that he will prioritise trade facilitation, production, ease of doing business, ease of movement.
“As long that there is production and for Naira to rise, there must be production, we are here to help you so production and trade are related. We know the law and we won’t violate it but we will administer the law to facilitate trade.
“As long there is production, Naira will rise. I promise to do my best and you should expect the best from you.”
Speaking to his officers, Compt. Alade sought cooperation and loyalty, saying he will reward hard work.
“I promise you amiable, considerate and welfarist leadership. I expect absolute loyalty. Also, revenue target is a fear and for the first time, revenue target is before me and this target is for all of us. I have the carrot and stick and I believe there are lot of benefits in using the carrot. I promise able leadership. The revenue must not drop. Please let’s do our work diligently because this is a revenue command and when we do our work diligently in Excise command, revenue will come. So, let’s work harder so that our revenue will beat that of the former Comptroller,” he stated.
